Basilique Notre-Dame

Many churches in France are dedicated to Mary, Mother of God, and have “Notre-Dame” (in German “Our Lady”) in their name. This church in Boulogne-sur-Mer has the addition “de l’Immaculée Conception”, i.e. the “Immaculate Conception”.
This term, which is perhaps a little difficult to understand these days, means that from the beginning, through the grace of God, the Mother of God was freed from the burden of original sin - which every human being carries within themselves. The feast “Maria - Immaculata Conceptio” of the Immaculate Conception of Mary (in the Catholic liturgy it is correctly said: “Solemnity of the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, conceived without original sin)” is celebrated on December 8th.

The Basilica of Our Lady in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a Roman Catholic church built in the nineteenth century on the ruins of the medieval cathedral. The church building was recognized as a minor basilica in 1879. The basilica is dedicated to Mary of Boulogne. It is one of the largest crypts in France and is located beneath the Notre-Dame Basilica. The crypt is a 1,400 m² labyrinth displaying breathtaking works including goldsmithing, bas-reliefs, lapidaria from all periods, paintings and 4,000 m² of murals. More than 400 pieces are presented during the tour. The crypt is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de l'Immaculée Conception was built in the 19th century in a neoclassical style. The striking dome is particularly striking.